Expect head-to-head traffic and delays 24/7 on Interstate 94 between Sauk Centre and Melrose

ST. CLOUD, Minn. – Motorists traveling on Interstate 94 between Sauk Centre and Melrose, Stearns County, can expect single-lane, head-to-head traffic, 24/7, as the Minnesota Department of Transportation updates and reconstructs four bridges over the Sauk River.

The work includes improvements to the I-94 bridges east of Highway 71 in Sauk Centre and east of Highway 13 near Melrose. Construction will occur over two seasons: repairs and updates to two eastbound bridges in 2026, followed by full reconstruction of the two westbound bridges in 2027.

2026 construction season

Work began in mid-April with installation of temporary median crossovers. Beginning the week of May 26, crews will repair the eastbound bridge decks, including a new concrete wearing course, approach panels, concrete joints, catch basins, and guardrail.

Traffic impacts (May 26-late October)

Motorists will encounter single-lane, head-to-head traffic, 24/7, at each bridge location. Download a map from the project webpage.
Expect multiple crews on site and watch for changing conditions including lane shifts, limited shoulders, and real-time traffic displays
Reduced speeds of 60 miles per hour. Use the zipper merge and stay in both lanes until the merge point.

In late October, work operations will pause for the winter, and each direction of I-94 will reopen to two lanes. In 2027, crews will return to remove and reconstruct the westbound bridges.

Redstone Construction, LLC, is the prime contractor for this $10.3 million project. When finished in fall 2027, travelers will benefit from smoother and safer bridge surfaces, reduced maintenance needs and long-term costs, and improved freight movement along I-94.

Visit the project webpage for more information: www.mndot.gov/d3/i94/sauk-river/.

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